Fortunately, Apple lets you control how apps access your data or location in iOS 8 and higher.

Check the terms and conditions of apps

Apps must ask your permission the first time they want access – you’ll see a pop-up on screen saying what it needs to access.

Think carefully about which apps you allow to use your personal data. Once permission is given, you’re then subject to the app developer’s terms and conditions. Read these first, so you know how your data may be used.

However, some iPhone apps need access to this information in order to work properly. For example, the Facebook app needs to use your device’s camera so that you can take and upload photographs directly to your Facebook page. And, your map app won’t be able to plan a route to a given destination if it doesn’t know your current location.

A good guideline is if the app needs access to data in order to complete its main task – such as show your location on a map – then you should consider granting it permission.

Changing app permissions

Whether you tap 'Allow' or 'Don’t Allow' when an app first asks permission, you can still change your mind later.

Tap Settings > Privacy to change permissions. Here you can select different kinds of data from this list to see which apps have asked for permission to use that data, and which have been granted permission.

You can add or remove permission from any app that has asked for access to data.

Alternatively, you can grant permission for individual apps to use 'Location Services'. You’ll see a pop-up window on screen requesting permission the first time an app tries to access your location.

To change permissions at any stage, tap Settings > Privacy > Location Services and select an app. You’ll see options including 'Never', 'Always' and 'When In Use'. Tap the permission you’d like to allow for that app. 'Never' will prevent that app from accessing your location, 'Always' allows access, even when the app isn’t in use, and 'When In Use' limits access to when you’re actively using the app.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.

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Lynn has more than 25 years' experience as a magazine editor, journalist and book author. She writes for consumer magazines and websites, covering a diverse range of topics including technology, computing, personal finance, food and nutrition.